04/14/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – April 14, 2026
Black Butte Ranch Police Department
Black Butte Ranch, Oregon —The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is urging drivers to take an active role in roadway safety by embracing and sharing a simple but critical message: Eyes Forward. Don’t Drive Distracted!
Distracted driving includes any activity that diverts attention from driving, with cell phone use being one of the most common and dangerous forms. Whether texting, scrolling, or engaging with apps, taking your eyes or mind off the road puts everyone at risk — including other drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and bicyclists.
The consequences are significant. According to NHTSA, between 2020 and 2024, distraction-affected crashes claimed 16,482 lives and left approximately 1.6 million people injured. In 2024 alone, 3,208 people were killed in crashes involving at least one distracted driver — accounting for 8% of all traffic fatalities — with an estimated 315,167 additional injuries reported.
Safe driving demands full attention at all times. Drivers are encouraged to adopt simple, effective habits to eliminate distractions and help create safer roadways for everyone:
• Pull over and park in a safe location before reading or sending text messages
• Designate a passenger to handle calls or messages while driving
• Avoid social media use or any form of messaging behind the wheel
• Activate “Do Not Disturb” mode to silence notifications
• Place your phone out of reach — such as in the trunk, glove box, or back seat
Using a phone while driving is not just risky — it can be deadly. Committing to phone-free driving means keeping your hands on the wheel, your eyes on the road, and your focus where it belongs.
Remember: Eyes Forward. Don’t Drive Distracted!
For more safety information please visit, NHTSA.gov/DistractedDriving.